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http://www.omniture.com --> Email Story to a Friend June 22, 2006 Beware of algae blooms at Lost Creek By Paul Fattig Mail Tribune TRAIL — Visitors are being warned to stay away from a blue-green algae bloom discovered this week in the Takelma recreation area of Lost Creek Lake pending toxicology tests. Test results from samples being taken from the site on the north side of the lake are expected early next week, said Jim Buck, Lost Creek Lake operations manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. There are no closures at the lake, he added. The Corps is working with health officials with the Oregon Department of Human Services in testing and monitoring the bloom. "The bloom was observed a few days ago — we've posted a general information advisory," Buck said. "Any time visitors see an algae bloom they should stay out of that area." Although many types of algae are harmless, some are toxic. In recent summers, algae blooms have caused the temporary closure of Diamond Lake in Douglas County and Selmac Lake in Josephine County. An algae bloom often is caused by the action of wind and waves on algae that is found near the shore. In addition to testing toxicity, the samples will indicate the level of toxins the algae contains. If toxins are present in the algae, they can be absorbed if swallowed, by prolonged contact with the skin or if inhaled as droplets in the air, officials warn. Exposure to the toxins can cause liver or nervous-system damage in humans and can be fatal to pets that ingest it. Water containing visible algae blooms should not be used for swimming, cleaning, cooking or drinking. Fish caught in an area of an algae bloom should not be eaten. Pets should not be allowed to drink the water or swim in it. However, other activities near the water such as camping, hiking and biking are safe. Algae blooms sometimes occur when temperatures are warm and water levels are lower, officials said. The lake is nearly full, Buck said. A bloom often produces a distinct blue-green or pea-green color in the water, which also is often cloudy. "This is a little unusual in that algae blooms generally occur later in the year, well into July or August," Buck said. "Because we're more aware of algae blooms, we decided as soon as we saw the bloom to put out an advisory." For more information, visit the Oregon Department of Human Services at www.oregon.gov/DHS on the Web. Advertisement s Mail Tribune Home | Local News | Sports | Business | Obituaries | Life | Opinion AP News | Archives | Site Map | Community | Classified Copyright © 1997-2006 Mail Tribune, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Website Feedback www.bingo.com Home Security Systems Trunks, Footlocker Custom Build Computers Discount Hotel Reservations --> online casinos news Ashley Furniture HomeStore Send Flowers California Casinos GMAT Prep Windermere Van Vleet Sports Equipment Entertainment Guide --> Online Casino Fundraisers Sudoku Online Casinos Canada Online Casino Reviews